An internationally acclaimed artist has brought his unique creations to Belfast, debuting it for the first time ever on the island of Ireland. The major exhibition by Australian artist Ron Mueck opens at the MAC in Belfast on Friday July 29.
The exhibition brings together seven of the artist’s hyperrealistic sculptures that are expected to 'enthral' visitors according to the MAC's Creative Director Hugh Mulholland.
Hugh said: “I am very excited to present this significant exhibition of Ron Mueck’s captivating work here in Northern Ireland and to welcome visitors already familiar with the MAC and also the many visitors who will travel to see this collection of works. Since he came to prominence in the late 1990s Mueck has continued to astound audiences around the world with his powerful and emotive works.
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"Ron Mueck invites us to reflect on the human condition and our own experiences of life, from birth to adolescence, middle age to old age and even death. These works are impactful and unforgettable and do what all great art strives to accomplish – connect with each of us emotionally."
Ron Mueck began his career as a model-maker, working in advertising, film and television. His move into fine art was initiated by a collaboration with artist Paula Rego at London’s Hayward Gallery in 1996.
A year later, his sculpture, Dead Dad, a three-foot representation of the artist’s dead father, was exhibited at London’s Royal Academy of Arts in the exhibition ‘Sensation: Works of Art from the Saatchi Collection.’ This landmark group show would establish Ron Mueck as one of the most important artists of his generation.
Noirin McKinney, Director of Arts Development and Principal funder, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, added: “The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is delighted that the MAC is premiering the work of Ron Mueck on the island of Ireland. This is an unmissable opportunity to see some of the key works of this exceptional artist. I would encourage everyone to go along to engage with Mueck’s mesmerising sculptures.”
Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor Tina Black said: “It’s a real coup for the MAC to be the first cultural venue on the island of Ireland to secure Ron Mueck’s exhibition. We’re proud, long term supporters of the MAC and it’s so encouraging to see both the excellence in their programming and their commitment to accessibility and inclusivity continuing to go from strength to strength.
“I’d encourage everyone to take the opportunity to see this internationally renowned artist’s powerful work right here in Belfast. I have no doubt that this collection of hyperreal sculptures which encourage us to reflect on our shared humanity will attract visitors from near and far and prove to be a cultural highlight for the city.”
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